Music Monday: “I’m Yours” by Blanca (featuring Ryan Ellis)
by: Debbie Waltz
This past weekend has been filled with activities as I’ve been highlighting my book, “The Summer of Mended Hearts.” Last week, I was interviewed on the podcast “The Broken Vessels” by Dr. Latoya Washington. The dialogue centered on the concept of Christians acting as instruments of God’s love in the world, even amidst their personal struggles. On this week’s Overcomer podcast, I offered a more personal account, sharing my testimony and the motivation behind writing the book. Though I’ve shared bits and pieces of my testimony on here, I never realized how vital Dragon Naturally speaking was to finding my voice and helping me gain and maintain my independence throughout the years. My parents’ support and guidance helped me overcome the isolation of middle and high school and blossom into my own person in college.
As I’ve previously mentioned, I’m still hesitant to share my story to promote my book. I feel inadequate not only because I dislike discussing myself, but also because I’m uncomfortable recalling my middle school years and the way I felt in my skin because of my disability.
I’ve changed considerably. Thanks in part to my parents’ support and the genuine friendships that recognized the person beyond my disability.
Still, there are days when I question whether my story is enough…
Or when past insecurities resurface, making you doubt if your words will be misunderstood because of a speech impediment.
Or when the urge to compare hits, making me measure my sales against those of other authors in my genre…
We’ve all had those days when our insecurities come back to haunt us. But here’s the good news. As followers of Christ, we are no longer bound by that reality. In what way? Instead of basing our self-esteem on worldly achievements and material possessions, we can discover our true identity by anchoring ourselves in Christ. Does this mean we never struggle?
Absolutely not!
Rather, it signifies our acknowledgment of the inherent limitations within our human condition and our acceptance that we are incapable of achieving salvation independently. Frequently, we encounter greater difficulties because God desires to use us for His purposes, while the devil aims to prevent us from following His guidance.
That’s when our true battle begins. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” However, God doesn’t abandon us to face this struggle by ourselves. Instead, he provides us with the weapons we need. (Ephesians 6:13- 17)
Remember, this world is not our true home; our home is in heaven with God. Colossians 3:2-4 says: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died in your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life appears, then you will appear with him in glory”
As I was getting ready for my latest interview, Blanca’s “I’m Yours” arrived at just the right moment for me. This catchy little tune reminded me of my worth in Christ. It also encourages me that even in my brokenness God can use me and that His timing cannot be messed up by our mistakes. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
I hope it does the same for you on Monday morning.